The Daily Star Ireland
The Netherlands travel to Helsinki to face Finland in a crucial World Cup 2026 qualifier, with both sides heading into the fixture under very different circumstances. The Dutch are desperate to rediscover their rhythm after a turbulent run of results, while Finland are quietly building momentum under new management.
Match Preview
The Netherlands come into this match with plenty to prove. Despite their world-class pedigree and top-10 FIFA ranking, Ronald Koeman’s side have struggled for consistency in recent months. They’ve won just two of their last nine games, including a disappointing Nations League elimination at the hands of Spain. Injuries have compounded their problems, with Matthijs de Ligt, Jurrien Timber, and Brian Brobbey all sidelined.
Still, the Oranje boast an abundance of talent. Frenkie de Jong will control the tempo in midfield alongside the dynamic Tijjani Reijnders, while Denzel Dumfries and Cody Gakpo are expected to drive attacking transitions. Memphis Depay remains Koeman’s most reliable goal threat, having scored in back-to-back qualifiers.
Finland, meanwhile, enter the match on a more positive note. Under new head coach Jacob Friis, the Eagle-Owls have started their qualifying campaign with a win over Malta and a draw against Lithuania. Friis has implemented a more balanced system, blending experience with youthful energy. Captain Lukas Hradecky is set to make his 100th appearance, anchoring a defense that has shown improved discipline. Teemu Pukki and Joel Pohjanpalo remain Finland’s main attacking outlets, supported by Robin Lod’s creativity in midfield.
Team Form & Recent Results
Netherlands (Last 5 matches): L W D L L
Finland (Last 5 matches): D W L D W
The Dutch have struggled to convert possession into goals, while Finland have been quietly effective—scoring in each of their last four games.
Head-to-Head Record
The Netherlands dominate the historical matchup, winning the last four meetings between the sides by a combined score of 11–2. Their last encounter, in 2021, ended 4–0 in favor of the Dutch. Finland, however, are unbeaten in their last six home qualifiers, giving them a platform for optimism.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Netherlands Predicted XI: Verbruggen (GK); Dumfries, Ake, Van Dijk, Hartman; Reijnders, De Jong, Wieffer; Simons, Gakpo, Depay
Finland Predicted XI: Hradecky (GK); Niskanen, O’Shaughnessy, Hoskonen, Uronen; Kamara, Schüller, Källman; Lod, Pohjanpalo, Pukki
Injuries:
- Netherlands: De Ligt, Timber, Brobbey (out)
- Finland: Eremenko (out)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Koeman’s Netherlands are likely to dominate possession, utilizing wide overloads through Dumfries and Gakpo to stretch Finland’s compact shape. De Jong’s passing range and Reijnders’ box-to-box energy will be vital in breaking down the hosts’ low block.
For Finland, the plan will revolve around defensive organization and rapid counterattacks. Hradecky’s leadership at the back will be essential, while Pukki’s intelligent movement could trouble the Dutch backline. Lod’s creativity from midfield will be Finland’s main source of chances.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- Match Result: Netherlands (1.45) | Draw (4.50) | Finland (7.00)
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over (1.72) | Under (2.00)
- Both Teams to Score: Yes (2.15) | No (1.60)
Betting Insights:
- The Netherlands have won six of their last seven qualifiers away from home.
- Finland have scored in five consecutive home games.
- Both teams have averaged over 2.5 goals per match combined in their recent head-to-heads.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Venue: Helsinki Olympic Stadium, Finland
Date: October 11, 2025
Kickoff Time: 19:45 BST / 20:45 CET
Broadcast: Viaplay, Ziggo Sport, FIFA+ (regional availability applies)
Prediction: Netherlands vs Finland, World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
This encounter should provide an engaging tactical duel — Finland’s structure and discipline against the Netherlands’ superior technical quality. The hosts will frustrate the Oranje early, but the visitors’ creativity and firepower should eventually break through. Expect Depay and Gakpo to lead the way as Koeman’s men secure an important away win.
